You no longer feel the need to be catapulted (in total darkness) through corkscrew turns while approaching the speed of light; you also are not ready for a rocking chair at Shady Pines! Lovely and enchanting Kissimmee, Florida, offers a variety of activities aimed at people just like us. You're welcome to follow along on our recent visit.
Downtown Kissimmee presents a wide array of charming shops where you can buy antiques, collectibles and more. Interesting historical tidbit: During the Civil War, Kissimmee had become important to the Confederate Army by providing cattle to feed the hungry troops. The sound of cracking cow whips, wielded by the herders, led to them being called ""crackers"". This unique city has maintained its cow-town origins; cattle auctions and rodeos are still a way of life.
Just around the corner from downtown Kissimmee, we stumbled onto these great attractions:
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Big Toho Airboat Rides. We're so glad we did this airboat tour. Experience nature the way the Seminole Indians did. Scenic airboats ride up the Shingle Creek as they are navigated by knowledgeable and hilarious staff! Sign on for a nature eco tour if you want to see endangered species (Snail Kites, Cranes, Eagles and, of course, Alligators!) If you'd like to kick back and enjoy bass fishing, the kind folks at Big Toho can arrange that too. 321.689.8918
- Osceola Country Historical And Pioneer Center. A museum dedicated to educating visitors while preserving the rich history of the area; view original and replica period articles and construction. Particularly interesting was our walk through the 1900 general store and an 1898 cracker house. We felt as though we had stepped back in time. 407.396.8644
Osceola Center For Arts. Top-notch entertainment in Kissimmee, Florida.. Choose from stage productions of Meredith Wilson's ""The Music Man"", Neil Simon's ""Plaza Suite"", or enjoy Big Band concerts, A Tribute to Elvis Show, (all scheduled in coming months) or shop the Osceola Crafts Holiday Gift Gallery (November 19-December 19, 2007). 407.846.6257.
The Ice Factory. If you need to cool off, this may be your solution. Yep, go ice-skating! You can take a trip down memory lane while skating to the Oldies! If you have youngsters or grandchildren along, they will be treated to strobe lights, pop music and games! Family packages are available including skating, rental skates, pizza and pop. 407.933.4259
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Scuba Diving in Florida. Kissimmee Professional Dive Center provides guided ocean dives (includes equipment, entrance fee, boat pass and transportation). If you're not an experienced diver, you can still have a great time snorkeling with the Manatees Warning: You'll want to bring one home with you; they won't fit in your tub, I measured! 407.933.5090.
Kissimmee's Old Town. A classic boardwalk style carnival. The giant Ferris wheel greets you as you enter this shopping, dining and entertainment paradise! Along with specialty shops and unique restaurants, 15 amusement rides are featured (some for even the most skittish among us).
Jungleland Zoo. We spent a relaxing day strolling around, viewing exotic animals, feeding the monkeys and were able to touch an alligator (my heart is still pounding) at one of the three daily shows.
This tidbit of real travel advice was contributed by Mary Dorice Wills